[sdiy] Type of aluminium for front panels.

[Dave Kendall]

Hi all.

Am looking to build 6U high front panels for a large modular. Panels 
will be mounted on eurorack rails, thickness will be between 2.5 mm and 
3 mm, and minimum panel width will be 60 mm. 3 mm is a max, due to the 
pots used (alpha-type).

Googling suggests 5052 and 6061 as being the strongest alloys. Due to 
the relatively large size of the panels, I'm looking for good 
resistance to flexing, as the banana jacks that will be used have a 
relatively large cut-out of 9.2mm,  weakening the panel somewhat. Ease 
of drilling is the next most important consideration.

Can anyone give any recommendations for a good alloy type and hardness 
rating to go for?
Does the price vary a lot? The local sheet metal works does aerospace 
work, so can probably source some good stuff.

cheers,
Dave